Ultimate champ to defend crown

Gresham resident Randy Couture's defense of his Ultimate Fighting Championship heavyweight title will come sooner, rather than later.

Couture, 7-0 in UFC, has signed to fight top contender Josh Barnett on March 22 at MGM Grand Garden Arena, in Las Vegas. It's tabbed by promoter Zuffa as the 'Battle of Seattle,' as both fighters hail from the Seattle area.